Stars of the 1970 cult classic romance film ‘Love Story’ reunite for new interview

44 years have passed since the Love Story novel-turned-film premiered and stole the hearts of people all over the world. Stars Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw have met once again to reflect on their experiences filming together.

The novel and film begins with a warning for the audience that the female lead, Jenny, will pass away from cancer. Jenny, an Italian working class college girl, falls in love with Oliver, a wealthy Harvard student and hockey star. Love Story chronicles the roller coaster of a relationship between the two characters, from first meeting to Jenny’s heartbreaking death.

When The Hollywood Reporter asked about what it was like to shoot the movie, MacGraw, 75, shared nothing but fond memories. “Making it was actually unbelievably fun the whole time; I was stupid and knew enough in the business to think it was always like that. Ryan had worked a lot; I hadn't,” she said. “Everyone on the crew cried periodically during filming. But even though we were setting up this heart-wrenching story, we laughed for three months, as well.”

O’Neal, 73, brought up the film’s famous line, “love means never having to say you’re sorry,” and laughed. “You’d better say you’re sorry!” he quipped.

“It’s a crock!” MacGraw chimed in.

O'Neal himself has suffered from several health and emotional troubles over the years. Between two divorces and the loss of longtime partner Farrah Fawcett, O'Neal was diagnosed with cancer in the early 2000s, according to E!. In 2012, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent treatment. In 2013 the actor fought skin cancer.

The two actors reportedly do not see each other often, though they remain close friends and are thankful for the opportunity they had to work together.